Sewing together Scattered Thoughts and Stories into a Meaningful Piece

travel

It was my biggest dream to fly. I often imagine myself with wings, not the angel type, but one like those of butterfly. I always dreamt of touching the clouds. Crazy as it may sound, but that is the real reason why I wanted to fly. It so easy to achieve that, one might say, but at my age, honestly speaking I’ve never been into airplane, not until recently, when I got the opportunity to see the stunning Davao.

My flight to Davao was both an exhilarating and thrilling experience. As a first timer, I can’t explain the joy of seeing the clouds up close, especially when I was lucky enough to have a seat beside a window. For the first ten minutes, I was in awe. I was amazed by how these big buildings and houses appeared like tiny dots when you’re up in the sky. Yeah, I’ve enjoyed the ride to Davao minus the turbulence from time to time because it makes me dizzy for a while.

We travelled for almost two hours. Upon takeoff, my eyes readily wandered from one point to another just to see how Davao is far different from Manila. We were greeted by the organizer of the event and they took us to sumptuous lunch of seafood and other Davao delicacies.

From Davao City, we head on to Island Garden of Samal, Davao del Norte. But to reach the said place, we had to take a 15-20-minute ferry ride. The ride was awesome, I’ve got to relax and breathe in the cool air and be one with the calm sea.

After some time, we, then dock to the coastline of Club Samal Resort.

Club Samal Resort offers breathtaking ocean experience, along with its warm swimming pools.

One can opt between plunging in the sea or to drench in their pools.

What I love most during my stay here is my morning walks in the beach.

I’ve got to enjoy the white sand in addition to the crystal clear water of the ocean.

Though I missed the chance to swim in the beach, I was still glad to be able to dip my feet in its cold water and be mesmerized by the beauty it possessed.

We also got to meet some Davaoeño kids during our stay here and we are fortunate enough to listen to their life story.

During our last night in the island, we were able to enjoy the live band performing that day.

We just listened and jived in their music from time to time. It was soothing.

Our last day was spent wandering in the city of Davao. We were shown places to buy pasalubong and souvenirs. First stop is Aldevinco Souvenir shop.

Every stall in this place offers variety of Davao products like bags, t-shirts, malongs, and pearls, to mention a few.

Aside from durian, Davao is also known to be the Chocolate capital of the Philippines.

Different cacao products can be seen in this side of the city.

And this is the part of the city tour that I liked most. I’ve got to taste different variety of chocolates for free, and it’s delicious.

Tranquility – this is what Davao made me experience. For four days, I was able to commune with nature and see that every place has its own beauty that needs to be appreciated.

My first flight was a remarkable one, not only because I’ve experienced what it feels like to be up high but because, just when I needed it most, I found solemnity in the beautiful city of Davao. ###

“The open road is a beckoning, a strangeness, a place where a man can lose himself.” – William Least Heat Moon

I never thought I would be traveling far north anytime soon.

A last minute invitation turned not-so-sure if-it-will-be-pursued-vacation (due to work related issues) turned c’mon-let’s go-escape-the city was worth all the frustrations and uncertainties of this superb and momentous escapade to Apayao.

Located in the northernmost part of Luzon in the Cordillera Administrative Region (CAR), Apayao is a 13 to 15-hour drive away from the Metro where one can enjoy countless picturesque scenery which are totally stunning and interesting.

And so last April 27, friday night, my pal and I decided to join his grandmother and cousins, along with his sister to visit their province, which is of course, Apayao. They usually visits their province every year for summer vacation, but it is only this year that I was able to join them. I remember how my pal keeps on asking me to go with them whenever they go home but due to personal matters I always keep on declining. But this year, yeah, I made it so.

By 5:30 in the afternoon, we headed on to RCG Bus terminal going to Junction Luna in Abulug, Cagayan which is located in Sampaloc, Manila to make it to the scheduled departure of 6 p.m. I don’t know why, but it took 7 p.m. before the bus was able to depart. The fare costs us P700 per person, one way ticket only.

I can say that the long drive going to Apayao is tiring but it’s worth it. Good thing that we chose the last scheduled trip just so we can enjoy the night without getting uncomfortable over the heat of the daylight. It’s just that it is hard to find a comfortable spot to sleep except to sit uneasily for long hours, and I am just so blessed that I have beside me, my pal, who serves as my pillow. Lol! I also want to remind others to bring along with you a jacket and pillow because it’s really cold inside the bus especially if you’ll be traveling the same hour as we did.

From time to time, we were awakened to attend to our personal needs during stopovers. But then I realized that the reason why it took us 14 long hours before we arrive to our destination is probably because of these stopovers. But of course, I’ll put it aside because I know, just as how exhausted we are, how much more is the person driving, right? And to make the bus story short, we arrived at Junction Luna in Cagayan, with the sun at its peak, by 9:30 in the morning.

After we brought down our luggages, Nanay (my pal’s grandma) rented a tricycle that will take us to their home. As I’ve heard, the tricycle trip costs P200-250. And another hour and so was spent on the road before we arrive in our sure destination – the fishery farm of Nanay’s family in Brgy. Imelda, Pudtol.

And so, this is what life in the province truly is – smell of green grasses, the relaxing sound of overflowing water, and breathe of fresh air. I grew up not having a province to visit to. This is why I am excited to know what it feels like living far away from the noisy and busy metro. And Apayao didn’t fail me. I love it here.

The first thing that struck me as we alighted from the tricycle is that the place is full of fish ponds with varieties of tilapia in it.

We were also asked to catch tilapia for our lunch and I find it amusing, as a first timer, to have caught a fish in a pond, and it was an achievement for me.

And what I loved the most was the sight of what they called Vietnamese Roses in blooming colors of white and pink alongside the pond. It is really beautiful. And from that moment, I knew this will be a great adventure.

We then rested for a while and then decided to pay a visit to their respective relatives nearby via walking. Yes, walking. Though I’m not really a fan of walking especially if it will costs me over 10 minutes of using my feet, I’ve enjoyed the walk, honestly. Why? Because I was able to walk with green grasses everywhere, the bluest sky I can see up above and the peak of mountains standing proud. Amazing, isn’t it! What a beautiful sight!

We were able to go to Brgy. Alem, where their aunt and uncle resides. And there, I have seen another sight of fish ponds. And without hesitations, I was able to take a nap in their made-up kubo because the cool air makes me do it so. After some time, we asked their uncle to tour us around the province in the afternoon and we then bid our goodbyes. (What I realized as I go around the area is that various flowers bloom here and there, that’s why I asked aunt if she can give me some flowering plants as a take home.)

In that same afternoon, just as decided, their Uncle toured us around the province using his tricycle. (Another realization: Going to and fro other places here takes 30 minutes to an hour. It’s best that you have your own vehicle while traveling here because the only mode of transportation here, as far as I know, is a tricycle.) Our first stop: Lusok Cave and Underground River.

This multi-chambered cave is one the most sought-after destinations in Luna, Apayao and it can be reached by riding a banca for P120.

We were accompanied by a tourist guide who pinpointed to us, using her flashlight, the decade-old stalactites and stalagmites inside the cave and of which features different imagery.

I was amazed by the beauty of the cave and river.

But unfortunately, we were not able to go spelunking because we did not make it to their cutoff time which is 4:00 p.m. and so we just resort to picture taking.

We also had the chance to walk in their makeup bridge, the access to our way out.

From above, you can see the stunning green river flowing with the magnificent view of the cave.

After which, we headed to the Apayao Ecotourism and Sports Complex located in Payanan, Luna Apayao. This (more than) four-hectare sports complex features an Olympic-sized pool, a 400-meter track oval, club houses and a gallery, to name a few. This venue was developed in 2012 for the 2013 Cordillera Administrative Region Athletic Association (CARAA) meet.

But actually, I was saddened by the fact that this tourist spot is not properly maintained. But then, I was still happy to see blooming yellow daisies in the area.

We were also able to see the center of progress in the province: the Apayao Capitol and City hall.

Our tour ended with the sun already set and so before we go home, we decided to try Apayao’s specialty: Mami. This soup made up of homemade noodles with beef and egg, simmered with delicious vegetables is really one of a kind. It was indeed delicious. And up ‘til now, I can’t forget the taste of it.

We got home with the moon peeking on the sky. And because I’m still too full to eat dinner, I decided to just lay in bed, ready for another adventure the next day.

I was awakened by the sound of a pig being killed. Apparently, here in the province, when someone from faraway destination came to visit, they make it a point to prepare specialty foods. Moreover, I was also blessed to see the sun shining so bright outside, telling me it will be another good day ahead.

We, then, decided to take a morning walk. And even just for a brief time, and in his best capacity, my pal taught me how to ride a bicycle. But of course, with my weak balancing, the lessons prove to be futile.

And so we came back to the house to have our breakfast. Lolo also picked us fresh buko and we drank it savory.

After which, we were told to feed the fishes. Yes, I have the opportunity to see school of fishes eagerly wanting more foods.

From time to time, they will come in numbers with their mouth sprouting in the water. It was an undeniable sight.

Then, my pal’s sister invited us to go with them in the river they used to take a bath every time they come here. We spent more than 30 minutes walking with the sun at its finest just to go see it. We’ve walked in lands surrounded with fields.

And from time to time, I chose to walk barefoot because my slippers make it uneasy for me to walk in the muddy land.

And at last, we came to the beautiful spot they’re talking to.

From there, I saw vast of green fields in addition to the beautiful morning sky. I’m at peace, literally and emotionally. We then soaked readily in the overflowing river because we were told that we are going to go swimming in a beach. And so hurriedly, we rushed back home.

As expected, we spent our day at a beach in Ballesteros. It was fun. The waves are so inviting and so I played with it. Big waves came rushing and it is what makes it exciting. Though the place was a bit crowded, I was able to enjoy spending time here. My sunburned body is the living proof of how I am pleased to be here, being one with the scorching sun and the cool breeze of the sea.

And just before the sun sets on the horizon, we travelled back home. I lay in bed still feeling the waves pulling me deep. It was the smell of sea salt in my hair and my body that yanked me to sleep.

Our third day was another set of hellos but more of goodbyes. It was our last day in the province and we only have half of it to spend because we’re travelling back to Manila in the afternoon.

For our last tour, uncle decided to let us see the Apayao dam. We were able to see splash of water in it though it’s hard to see the whole place because of the brightness of the sun.

After which, he drove us in a river where we took our last swimming opportunity. The river is an extension of Karayan Malunod or most popularly known as Cagayan River.

Here, we were able to plunge in the clear water where locals also use to do their laundries.

The water is cold and underneath are different stones of sizes.

It took us some time before we decided to head home.

Back home, we visited another relative of my pal and then I picked up some Vietnamese roses along with its root just so my mom can plant it when I got home.

And then we took our last lunch overseeing the fishpond. I ate fresh tilapia and it’s truly delicious compared to tilapia being sold in metro’s market. Then, my pal’s family decided to swim in the made up bathtub in the fishpond, but I decided to just rest before we go home.

We traveled back to Manila at two in the afternoon.

I never expected that traveling to Apayao will be an unforgettable experience. I was amazed by the hospitality of the residents here and how gifted this place is with all its rich biodiversity, natural wonders and cultural aspects. Long hours of going here will be worth it. It’s easy to fall in love with such a lovely place like Apayao.

And I admit it — one summer of 2018, with the sun shining so bright above, with the sound of birds chirping, and the symphony of clouds marching in the sky, I have given my heart to Apayao. ###

It was really an exhilarating feeling when you plan something and end up doing it. It seems like there is no turning back but only moving forward. And yes, it is no wonder that I’m so excited to share the exciting adventure my friends and I have achieved, and that is to wander the beautiful region of Ilocos.

The truth is it was only on January that we decided to go to Ilocos, a sudden plan that we made into reality. From then, we searched travel agencies that offer cheap but nice accommodations. We compare packages from time to time and viola, we came across IExplore Travel & Tours. And after some clarifications and inquiries, it was decided that we travel from March 16-19.

On March 16 (friday night), we were met by Ms. Joy (the one in charge of Iexplore) at Farmer’s Market Cubao. The original time of departure was 9:00 p.m. but apparently, the assigned driver got lost somewhere so we depart thirty minutes later.

Setting aside that small glitch, we were just really excited, so off we go. 🙂

Our first tour started from the beautiful City of Vigan.

DAY 1

Calle Crisologo

After six to seven hours of travelling, we arrived safely at our first stop: Calle Crisologo at around 5:00 a.m. It was still dark when we wander around the said place. But the lights are good for it adds beauty to the place while we captured some photos.

After which, we were met by our Ilocos tour guide, Ate Karen. But before we proceed to our next stop, we were told to take our breakfast.

Bantay Church

This is one of the most famous churches in Ilocos Sur. Bantay Church is also called as the Saint Augustine Parish Church.

Bantay Bell Tower

The said bell tower is located just a few minutes’ walk from Vigan City. It is one of the historic landmarks of the city. It sits on a hill overlooking a beautiful landscape. Here you can capture picturesque view of the beautiful city.

Vigan Cathedral

Also known as the St. Paul’s Cathedral. It is considered a major religious landmark of northern Luzon. I was amazed by the beauty of the said church as we traversed inside it.

Plaza Burgos

We , then, proceed to Plaza Burgos. This plaza was built in honor of the martyrdom of Father Jose P. Burgos.

Plaza Salcedo

Meanwhile, this tourist spot was built to remeber the heroism of the Spanish conqueror, Juan de Salcedo. Here you can see dancing fountains at night and what struck me was lighted map of the Philippines sprouting from the reflecting pool of the area. It was really awesome.

Baluarte

This place is a must-see attraction of the city. It houses a mini zoo and it has a collection of different paintings and animals. It lies in hectares of land that stretches from the rolling plain towards the hills. Here, we paid P10.00 as a fee so we can rode a service car going up. There, we were able to see different kinds of animals roaming freely in the area. And on the top of it, we were able to enjoy the private collection of Mr. Chavit Singson.

Hidden Garden

After which, our tour guide informed us to take our early lunch in this beautiful place called Hidden Garden. This place is located at the heart of Vigan.

It is popular for its beautiful garden wherein you can find different flowers and herbal plants, along with different potteries.

My friends and i decided to try their very own bagnet sisig and sinanglao. The price is affordable and the dishes are delicious. Naimas!

Pagburnayan

After our lunch, we head off to Pagburnayan. It is the iconic pottery place in the city. They called these earthenware burnay. These jars are famous among foreign and local tourists for they are really skillfully made.

So to experience the so-called burnay-making, we pushed our friend Sarah to try making one. It was a real fun!

Ilocos Sur Provincial Jail

Next, we head off to the famous Ilocos Sur Provincial Jail. This is where our late President Elpidio Quirino was born. This old jail turned museum displays different memorabilia of the former President, along with other national treasures of the Northern Luzon.

I was also amazed by the different paintings/drawings displayed on the museum because as our tour guide shared, those paintings hold a surrealistic story behind.

By afternoon, we proceed to the wonderful city of Laoag, Ilocos Norte.

Paoay Church

The St. Augustine Church or most commonly known as Paoay Church is one of the oldest churches in the Philippines. It is also a United Nations Educational, Scientific and Cultural Organization (UNESCO) World Heritage Site.

I must say that the beauty of this church is so captivating. I was moved by how this old church stood the test of time. Upon entering the said church, I was easily at peace. It is really a must-see destination.

Malacanang of the North and Marcos Mausoleum

Ilocos Norte also has its own version of Malacañan Palace. It is the Malacanang of the North or what the locals referred to as Malacañang ti Amianan. It is one of the important landmarks of the region as this has been the official residence/rest house of the late President Ferdinand Marcos and his family whenever they are in Ilocos. Aside from the memorabilia of the late President inside, this majestic mansion showcases different antique furniture and interesting art pieces.

Such a splendid view outside the mansion.

Sand Dunes

My Ilocos tour is one of the unforgettable moments in my life just because of this adrenaline rushing adventure which is the 4 x 4 ride and sand boarding in the stirring La Paz Sand Dunes.

The ride was really breathtaking (for the view of the place itself) and breathless (for the heart pumping tour going up and down the dunes). We literally lose our voice after the extreme ride but it was really awesome!

Sand boarding was fun, too. At first, I do not attempt to try it because of fear that I will be out of balance (after reading other blog posts regarding this activity). But after watching others do it, I decided to try it.

I really enjoyed all the activities here and if given the chance, i will surely go back and try again this extreme experience.

We ended our first day tour right after the extreme sand dunes experience. After which, we took our dinner along the way and proceeded to Century Garden Hotel, our assigned lodging.

Century Garden Hotel

I love watching sunrise. This one’s taken behind our hotel room at Century Garden Hotel.

DAY 2

The next day, we began our Pagudpud tour. Along the way, we saw the restless South China sea.

Cape Bojeador

Situated on a rocky promontory near the town of Burgos is the historical Cape Bojeador lighthouse. It was said that the lighthouse was known for its ghost stories but we can’t keep ourselves from seeing this attractive place.

Climbing up, it was very peaceful. I can say that the blue sky adds to the magnificent view of the lighthouse just as you look upward.

Kapurpurawan Rock Formation

Right after Cape Bojeador, we went straight to Kapurpurawan. Located on the rocky coast of Burgos, Ilocos Norte,the Kapurpurawan rock formation is known for its creamy white and unique limestone formations, which have been sculpted by different oceanic and weather forces.

We walked for about 10-20 minutes just to see this unique rock formation and I will say that even with the scorching heat of the sun, the effort was worth it. So when you plan on visiting this place, I remind you to bring water, hat/umbrella, towels or even fan.

Bangui Windmills

Our next stop was the famous Bangui Windmills. One should never miss this extremely enormous blades rotating in the sky. I was astonished when I first saw these giant turbines because I really don’t have any idea how big they are. It is really quite a sight for tourist. Our tourist guide also warned us to stay away from the shore, which is basically the South China sea, because of its strong wave current.

Beautiful windmill souvenirs.

We took our lunch after which, then we go along the Patapat (Bridge) Viaduct.

Patapat (Bridge) Viaduct

One of the most photographed destination of Pagudpud, this bridge connects the Maharlika Highway in Laoag to the Cagayan Valley.

We only stayed here for a while but it was the scenery of the place that was so hard not to notice.

Our next itinerary should take us to Hannah’s Beach Resort (Blue lagoon), but apparently, our tour guide knows the best resorts in the place and she led us to Saud beach Resort.

Saud Beach Resort

One of the well-known resort in the northwest of Luzon, the place was breathtaking. We also enjoyed the blueness of the sea and its white sand. It was spectacular.

We left the said resort at 4:00 p.m. because the ride going back to our hotel will take us long.

Pagudpud Arc

But along the way, we were able to take a picture in the famous Pagudpud Arc.

Along the way, also, our tourist guide suggested that we bought our dinner in this grilling place she knew. Her suggestion was superb because the foods there were truly delicious. We decided to buy inihaw na pusit and liempo. And we ate our (last) dinner in our hotel rooms.

DAY 3

We woke just as the sun was rising. It was a heartwarming scene but at the same time, heartbreaking, knowing that this is our last day in Ilocandia. But still, we need to keep on moving and so we just enjoyed our last day in the alluring region of Ilocos.

We first headed to the Ilocos Norte Capitol.

Ilocos Norte Capitol

Ilocos Norte Capitol is situated just near Laoag City’s main tourist attractions, namely, Museo Ilocos Norte, Marcos Hall of Justice, the Abolition of Tobacco Monopoly Monument, Sinking Bell Tower, and Cathedral of Saint William the Hermit. Here, we took our time taking pictures of other famous attractions near the area.

What left me stunned was the colorful umbrella canopy in the streets beside the Laoag City Hall and Marcos Hall of Justice. It was a real beauty. Those eye-catching interconnected umbrellas somewhat provides positive vibes to whoever take a sight of it.

After our tour to Ilocos Norte capitol, Ate Karen bid farewell to us. It was an amazing experience with her as our tour guide. I like her because she is really knowledgeable about the place, foods, and other sort of things. She is really good. It was a privilege knowing someone like her.

For our last stop, we returned to the place where we begin — Vigan. We just bought souvenirs and other pasalubong here.

It was a great and unforgettable adventure knowing the beautiful region of Ilocos. I’ve got to know lots of stuff, history, culture, traditions and gems of the said place. It was astounding!

For three days and two nights, Ilocos has taught me life itself — that there is beauty in discovering something you don’t know, and in seeking for the unknown, you will realize that there is more to life than just looking. In the end, you need to find what you are looking and be able to appreciate it. Because there are hidden jewels in this life that is so precious and significant. It is the kind of treasure you will carry all throughout your life and that is experience.

“Art is an effort to create, beside the real world, a more humane world.”
-Andre Maurois

Our country is enriched with culture and art. As our history unfolds, art serves as a proof that our country boost significant details and artifacts that preserves our rich heritage.

One of the living proofs that our country do exhibit rich heritage is the National Museum of the Philippines.

A government agency museum, The National Museum of the Philippines (NM) preserves, exhibits and fosters scholarly study and appreciation of works of arts, specimens and cultural and historical artifacts of the Philippines.

So last July 19, my office mates and I, decided to visit the said museum. The museum is located at P. Burgos Drive, Rizal Park, Manila. So knowing that it is now free of admission, off we go.

The museum has its branches which includes the National Art Gallery, Museum of the Filipino People, Planetarium and Regional Museums.

Apparently, we’ve only visited the the National Art Gallery and Museum of the Filipino People branches. But still, we’ve enjoyed our trip inside the museum.

As I said, admission is free to all, both local and foreign visitors. There is no need to present an ID. You just only need to register at the desk. It is open Tuesday to Sunday, 10 a.m. to 5 p.m.

You can take pictures inside the museum but there are few reminders you should observe. So, to ensure the safety of the visitors, as well as those artifacts, just follow those simple guidelines and prohibitions and enjoy your experience.

Just when you thought there are no more things you can enjoy, life will offer you something beautiful — not only for your eyes, but most of all for your soul.

Somewhere in the heart of Antipolo lies a hidden treasure, art enthusiasts and nature lover can surely love and enjoy — The Pinto Art Museum.

Located at 1 Sierra Madre St., Grand Heights, Antipolo City, this 1.3-hectare property features more than 300 modern paintings, art installations, and sculptures.

This art haven not offers only contemporary and modern arts but also showcases beautiful surrounding which is good for nature and photography lovers.

Actually, I’ve visited this museum twice (first, with my bestfriend and the second is with my special someone) and it didn’t failed to amaze me. I just so love the relaxing scenery and how this, though huge and tiring to walk in, can make you feel so calm and comfortable. If you want to escape the busy and noisy city and need some quiet time and place to have some fun, you should go for it.

We’ve also tried dining in their own Cafe Tan-Aw by Peppermill (but I think the cafe is now called Pinto Café) and the food is really good and delicious. Though it’s a bit costly, their food servings can still make you full.

Pinto Art museum is open every Tuesday to Sunday, from 9:00 a.m. to 6:00 p.m. Entrance fee is Php180 for regular ticket. While it costs Php150 for senior citizens and PWD with valid IDs and Php100 for children and students with proper school IDs.

Directions:

By public transportation/LRT 2

Take the LRT Line 2 and get off at the Santolan Station.

Take a jeepney (Php23) or FX (Php40) bound for Antipolo (Antipolo-Simbahan-Junction or Antipolo-Shopwise), Tanay (Tanay-Antipolo).

Get off at Ynares Center.

Ride a tricycle going to Grand Heights Subdivision (it will cost you Php40-50).

For inquiries and reservations, you can visit their facebook page Pinto Art Museum.

“Travel is more than the seeing of sights; it is a change that goes on, deep and permanent, in the ideas of living.” ~ Miriam Beard

T’was a very joyful and memorable journey to remember experiencing the cold and peaceful city of Baguio.

Baguio, The City of Pines, or much nice to say, “Summer Capital of the Philippines” really proved to us how fun it is to visit the city. Each tourist destinations here comes with genuine beauty that every Filipino will be proud of.

So, our adventure to the said City comes with a rush plan. It was on February that we, my friends/office mates (Ms. Angie, Rozette and Ms. Jena) decided to find some cool place to visit and luckily, we found one after searching through the internet. It comes with two days and One night accommodation in Baguio, with La Presa Sidetrip for only P2500 each (4 pax). It was a blessing, of course! 🙂

Our getaway was booked on March 21 and 22 and alas! It was really cool.

We assembled in McDonalds Mindanao Avenue (in front of Trinoma) and departed at 2:00 in the morning.

While waiting for our service at McDonalds Mindanao Ave. 😀

Apparently, we’re too sleepy to enjoy the road. By 4:00 a.m., Mang Adonis (our handsome driver), decided to have a stopover in Pangasinan and there we took our breakfast.

It was really cold in Sitio Pungayan. We took pictures of the beautiful landscape of the said place. We’ve also enjoyed taking pictures in front of Agnes’ house (Forevermore fanatics will surely know this) and every corner of it. The entrance fee is P20.

La Presa ❤

We also rent an Igorot costume for P20.

After which, we tried the famous Strawberry Taho (P20) plus we decided to buy pasalubong consisting of chocolate crinkles, peanut brittle, lengua de gato and others (8 pieces for P100).

Strawberry taho

Baguio Delicacies

Burnham Park

There are a lot of people in the park as we set our feet here. The park is really beautiful with different activities you can enjoy. Here we became instant flower photographer because you can see different flowers around.

What I really enjoyed here is renting a pedicab (P50). For one hour, you can enjoy exploring the park here and there (though we only used it for 30 minutes because of our limited time).

Pedicab with Tet 🙂

La Trinidad Strawberry Farm

Here, we were able to see the strawberry farm and different vegetables planted by the hardworking people of Baguio. You can picked strawberry yourself but you have to pay P450 for every one kilo of it.

We bought here strawberries (3 baskets for P100) and variety of vegetables for P100 (3 kilos).

What I enjoyed here is the Strawberry Ice Cream for P20. It is really delicious! 🙂

Bell Church

You can find here designed arches and buildings with dragons, bells and flags. It also has lovely gardens around.

Lourdes Grotto

One of the famous Catholic Shrines which tourists love to visit. It is a 252-step to the top where you can find the image of Our Lady of Lourdes. And I am really recommending that you visit the said place because it is really peaceful here.

After our day 1 adventure, Mang Adonis sent us to Sandoval Residences, a transient house, for us to rest and enjoy our free time. At 6:00 in the evening, we decided to take our dinner outside. 🙂

So rode a jeepney to Burnham Park and we took a walk towards the famous Session Road. We enjoy the cold breeze that’s why even if we walked so long (we really don’t know where we are heading), still we don’t break a sweat. Lol! 😀

Luckily, we found a fine Filipino restaurant, Solibao, along the road. I ordered Inihaw na Liempo for P105 and we added Salmon sa Miso for P199. The food is really delicious and affordable. And our tummy can attest to that.

Dinner at Solibao Restaurant. 🙂

After eating, we again decide to walk around the city and waited until 9:00 p.m. for the Night Market.

Night Market is Baguio’s version of Divisoria. Though here, people sell more of ukay-ukay products at affordable prices. We have bought long sleeves (3 for P20) and souvenir shirts (2 for P150).

We took a taxi after which and we really don’t expect that it only costs us P57. 😀

Our day 1 tour is superb! 🙂

DAY 2 (Sunday)

Baguio Cathedral

One of the most visited landmarks in Baguio. It is really applicable that our first stop is the said church for us to hear the Sunday mass. Best way to start your day: Pray. 🙂

The Mansion

With its beautiful garden, The Mansion is also one of the most visited place in the city. You can enjoy picture taking in the facade of it.

Botanical Garden

This is where you can find the famous Igorot tribe. Unfortunately, we were not able to take pictures with them because of our limited time. But, here you can find different plants and variety of flowers around.

Mines View Park

If you want to see a breathtaking view of Benguet’s gold and copper mines, you should not missed visiting Mines View Park. Here you can find spectacular mountains though you need to be extra careful because the place is narrow. You can also find different pasalubong area here.

Good Shepherd Convent

After our visit to Mines View Park, we were told to just walked to Good Shepherd Convent. This place is popularly known for the different products made by the Good Shepherd nuns. Among the items sold here are fruit preserves, strawberry and ube jams, cashew and peanut brittle, and coco jam. I bought Ube Jam which costs P200.

Camp John Hay

We were able to see part of Camp John Hay historical core inside this 690-hectare property. It took us P60, entrance fee. Here we were able to visit a restored house, cemetery of negativism and others. Though we weren’t able to finish the tour around the place, we enjoyed our adventure here.

Lion’s head

Our last stop. Located along the Kennon road, you should never missed taking your picture in the famous Lion’s head. 🙂 Your visit to Baguio City will never be completed without it. 😀

I surely enjoyed Baguio City. With its beautiful landmarks, I learn how to appreciate our country more. Philippines is really full of lovely place to visit. With this, I added another goal in my life. This is to travel more. Because through traveling, I became free. I’ve got the chance to explore beautiful scenery and appreciate God’s creation.

My Baguio Adventure is truly one of a kind. And I swear, I will surely return to this wonderful city sooner than later. 🙂

“You can’t bring an unwritten place to life without losing something substantial. Manila is the cradle, the graveyard, the memory. The Mecca, the Cathedral, the bordello. The shopping mall, the urinal, the discotheque. I’m hardly speaking in metaphor. It’s the most impermeable of cities. How does one convey all that?”
― Miguel Syjuco, Ilustrado

Far from the noisy streets, restless people and filthy surroundings of Manila, there are stories worth telling. Stories far beyond the horrendous scenarios we often hear and see. Because beneath all of the unappealing notion of this place, there is a story beautifully carved — something worth discovering.

Manila is beautiful. This I can prove so true, the very moment I let myself drowned inside it.

It was a beautiful experience traversing the streets of Manila. Here, I have seen spectacular views, landmarks and places which makes the place meaningful. With Ms. Angie, my dear friend, we enjoyed seeing things I never thought Manila can offer.

Manila Cathedral

The beautiful Manila Cathedral

Inside Manila Cathedral

Fort Santiago

Admission rates

San Agustin Church

Casa Blanca

I never regret spending my day exploring Manila. T’was a unforgettable experience. A great masterpiece we all need to see as a Filipino.

Ms. Angie and I, enjoying our trip. 🙂

Manila is indeed fabulous. We only need to take some time to appreciate all its hidden beauty and the history it tells us. Manila is really the heart and soul of the country.

“And so with the sunshine and the great bursts of leaves growing on the trees, just as things grow in fast movies, I had that familiar conviction that life was beginning over again with the summer.” ― F. Scott Fitzgerald, The Great Gatsby

It was a last minute plan going to Quezon province.

Just as the summer is on, my mother (who, in the first place, is not a fan of getaway activities), engaged my sisters to take her to Kamay ni Hesus in Lucban, Quezon.

Kamay ni Hesus is a famous tourist destination for visitors because it was known to be a healing church. This five hectare shrine was a good place to reflect and pray for it showcase the 50 feet statue of Jesus Christ on top of the 300 plus steps to a hill.

The feeling of satisfaction will rule you after you get to the top because there, you can see the refreshing view of the province plus the spiritual satisfaction after taking difficult steps just to get there. It was awesome. I love it there. 🙂 And for the record, my mother really enjoyed it. It made me happy, of course. 🙂

Next, we took the route to Real, Quezon.

An hour and a half ride was a challenge of course. The curves, from time to time, made our heads ache (especially to the kids, who vomitted in the middle of the trip). But those little discomfort was worth it after we saw the beach.

Yes! the beach. Though the sand was not white like those in other places, we’ve got to enjoy the place. Star of the Sea, the resort’s name, has allowed us to pay 500 pesos for the cottage. No entrance fee. Affordable indeed!

We took our time swimming in the sea and going along with the waves. It was a nice feeling. I’ve enjoyed being one of the waves even though many times I was left drowning (lol). The heat of the sun do not stop us from playing with the water. The kids loved the sand. It was amazing. 🙂

The heat is on! And just as summer displays its toll, seize every moment. Enjoy nature. See how far it will take you. 🙂

If you want to escape the noisy and busy city of Manila, Antipolo can surely offer you the best resorts ever. And I, for sure, can attest to that. Because just as you traverse the road, it will lead you to something beautiful. Something worth spending the summer with.

For 120 pesos per person (overnight swimming) plus 500 nipa hut cottage, we have enjoyed our night away. Here you can find huge swimming pools and other amenities. They also offer reservation for private activities.

Though we’ve experienced some disappointments because of the unorganized system when it comes to payments or even request (the admin had been insensitive for they are pointing fingers as to where we need to request for this or that), still we kept our heads cool and just have our good time.

And just before the sun rose, the management let us take the popular 460 steps to the mountain top.

It was really exciting. I enjoyed every step I take even though my legs ached from time to time. What made it fun as we go up is that we can see the beautiful landscape of the city. We were surrounded by nature’s beautiful gem. And at the top, all was worth it. It was as if we are one with mother nature. It was a satisfying experience. 🙂

I never regretted going to Real Cove Resort. It was a fun and challenging trip to remember. Thumbs up for this! 🙂

—–

Price list:

Direction:

Posts navigation

“Writers aren’t people exactly. Or, if they’re any good, they’re a whole lot of people trying so hard to be one person.” -F. Scott Fitzgerald
My life is beautiful and simple. I am surrounded by well-loving individuals who complete my everyday existence. They are the best part of my life. Everything in life is possible. So, if you want something, just go for it. Life is really good. Just trust God and stay positive everyday. I am loved. I am blessed. :)